A method and apparatus for recovering the residual image from an electrostatic recording surface in an electrostatic copying system which is accomplished by presenting a wiping element in pressure contact with the residual image on the recording surface whereby the residual image is substantially removed therefrom, moving a conductive member in close proximity to the toner particles being removed from the recording surface, applying a DC voltage opposite in polarity to that of the toner particles and of sufficient magnitude to the conductive member whereby the toner particles are attracted onto the surface of the conductive member, and continuously removing the toner particles from the conductive member into a collection zone for reuse in the copying system.